More than 170 Christians were abducted during Sunday services at multiple churches in Kaduna, Nigeria, highlighting ongoing security challenges and drawing renewed international attention.

The mass kidnappings occurred at three churches, including the Evangelical Church Winning All, Cherubim & Seraphim Movement Church, and a Catholic church. Eleven hostages reportedly escaped, while at least 168 remain missing, according to local officials. Many residents described the attacks as sudden and violent, with armed gangs targeting worshippers during services. Some families, like that of Afiniki Moses, who was previously abducted and released, faced the trauma of seeing loved ones taken again.

The attacks come amid rising concerns over the safety of Christians in northern Nigeria. Authorities initially denied the incidents, calling reports “rumors,” but later confirmed the abductions after verification by operational units and intelligence sources. Local advocacy groups and human rights organizations have condemned the delays and denial by the government, calling the situation “desperate” and criticizing the lack of an effective security plan.

President Donald Trump has pressed the Nigerian government to act swiftly and work with U.S. officials to address the violence. Trump’s administration has expressed concern over targeted attacks on Christians, framing the kidnappings as part of a broader effort by extremist groups in the region. Previous U.S. actions, including airstrikes against Islamist targets in northern Nigeria, have underscored the administration’s focus on combating terrorism and protecting vulnerable populations.

Religious leaders and advocacy organizations, including the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria and Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria, attempted to investigate but were reportedly turned away by local authorities. Witnesses described how congregants were forced into the bush, with some elderly and children eventually released, while others remain in captivity. The incidents have intensified pressure on the Nigerian government to respond decisively and prevent further attacks on faith communities.